Learn about scams

Tech Support Scams

Last updated September 18, 2026

The short answer

A popup on your screen says your computer is infected, or someone called claiming to be from Microsoft, Apple, or your internet provider. They want you to call a number, download software, or give them remote access to your computer. This is a scam.

How it works

  1. 1

    A scary warning appears

    A popup fills your screen saying your computer has a virus. It might have a phone number to call, or it might freeze your browser so you think something is really wrong.

  2. 2

    They pretend to be a real company

    They say they're from Microsoft, Apple, Norton, or your internet provider. They sound professional and use technical language to seem legit.

  3. 3

    They ask for remote access

    They tell you to download software like AnyDesk or TeamViewer so they can "fix" your computer. Once connected, they can see everything on your screen.

  4. 4

    They "find" the problem

    They open system tools that look alarming to someone who isn't technical. They point to normal computer processes and say they're viruses.

  5. 5

    They charge you, or steal from you

    They charge $200-$1,000+ for "repairs" that aren't real. Or while they have remote access, they access your bank accounts, install malware, or steal personal files.

Warning signs

  • A popup says your computer is infected and tells you to call a phone number
  • Someone calls you and says they're from Microsoft, Apple, or your ISP
  • They ask you to download remote access software (AnyDesk, TeamViewer, etc.)
  • They create urgency, like "Your computer will be locked in 5 minutes"
  • They ask you to pay with gift cards, wire transfers, or crypto
  • They want to "show you" something in your bank account while screen-sharing
  • The popup won't close or your browser seems frozen

What it looks like

Frozen browser with a fake Microsoft warning

You're browsing the internet and suddenly your screen fills with a warning. "Your computer has been compromised. Call Microsoft Support immediately: 1-888-XXX-XXXX." Your browser won't close. The number connects you to a scammer who asks for $299 to "remove the virus."

Phone call from "Norton Antivirus"

You get a call saying your Norton subscription is renewing for $399. They offer to help you "cancel" by connecting to your computer. While screen-sharing, they ask you to log into your bank to "verify the refund," then transfer money out of your account.

"Your internet will be disconnected"

A caller claims to be from your internet provider and says they detected unusual activity. They need remote access to "secure your router." Once connected, they install monitoring software that captures everything you type, including passwords.

What to do

  • If a popup appeared: close the browser (press Alt+F4 on Windows or Command+Q on Mac). Don't call the number.
  • If you're on the phone with them: hang up. They will try to keep you talking.
  • If you gave remote access: disconnect from the internet (unplug ethernet or turn off Wi-Fi). Then restart your computer.
  • Change passwords for your email, bank, and any accounts you logged into during the session.
  • Call your bank and credit card companies. Tell them what happened and ask them to watch for suspicious activity.
  • Run a real antivirus scan. Windows Defender (built into Windows) or Malwarebytes are trustworthy options.

Who gets targeted

Tech support scams most often target older adults who are less familiar with how computers work. Scammers rely on the fact that most people can't tell the difference between a real system warning and a fake one.

Anyone can fall for this. The popups are designed to scare you into acting before you can think.

By the numbers

$2.13 billion lost to tech support scams in 2025, up from $924 million in 2023
FBI IC3, 2026
People 60 and over filed 21,333 of the 47,794 reports
FBI IC3, 2026
People 60 and over lost $1.04 billion of the $2.13 billion
FBI IC3, 2026

Frequently asked questions

Will Microsoft ever call me about a virus?

No. Microsoft does not make unsolicited calls about viruses or computer problems. They also don't display phone numbers in error messages. Any such call or popup is a scam.

What should I do if I gave a tech support scammer remote access?

Immediately disconnect from the internet (turn off Wi-Fi or unplug ethernet). Run a full antivirus scan. Change all passwords from a different device. Check your bank accounts for unauthorized transactions. Consider having a professional inspect your computer.

How do I close a browser popup that won't go away?

Press Alt+F4 on Windows or Cmd+Q on Mac to force-close the browser. If that doesn't work, open Task Manager (Ctrl+Alt+Del on Windows) or Force Quit (Cmd+Option+Esc on Mac). After restarting, clear your browser cache.

Companies used in tech support scams

These are the brands scammers hide behind in this scam. Each guide covers what that company will never ask you for, and how to report it to them directly.

See all companies scammers impersonate